Published by Emily Mackie Speechie and Lizzy Dawson EP
Kids & Family
Education for Kids
We are child development obsessed, mums, business besties and are here to spill our secrets. We have a combined 30 years experience working with children. Each episode we will bring you up to date research and evidence based strategies to set children up to thrive. This is the Move, Talk, Thrive Podcast.
How does movement support the sensory system, and why does this matter when working with children? In this solo episode of Move.Talk.Thrive, Lizzy explores the connection between sensory input, motor output, regulation and participation from an exercise physiology perspective. She explains why children who crash, jump, avoid movement, struggle to sit still, become dysregulated or refuse activities may not be showing “bad behaviour”, they may be communicating sensory and nervous system needs. Lizzy also breaks down the vestibular, proprioceptive and interoceptive systems, and shares practical ways to adapt therapy environments in clinics, gyms, schools, early learning centres and homes. From calming movement and heavy work to becoming a sensory detective in the first few minutes of a session, this episode is a helpful listen for paediatric clinicians, parents and educators who want to better understand how movement can support regulation and participation. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode resonated with you, share it with a parent, clinician, educator or allied health professional who supports children with movement, regulation, sensory needs or participation challenges. Follow on Instagram → @movetalkthrive Watch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect with Us Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_ Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie
In this solo episode, Lizzy shares how research has shaped her confidence, clinical reasoning and advocacy as a paediatric exercise physiologist. She reflects on her journey from consuming research to partnering with the University of Queensland on an independent review of her Kids Heart Pilates program. Lizzy also shares the unexpected benefits of being involved in research, from professional growth and recruitment to networking, advocacy and new opportunities. A thoughtful and encouraging episode for clinicians, allied health business owners and practitioners who are curious about research, evidence-based practice and creating a bigger impact through their work. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode resonated with you, share it with a clinician, allied health business owner, educator or practitioner who is curious about research, evidence-based practice or creating a bigger impact through their work. Follow on Instagram → @movetalkthrive Watch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect with Us Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_ Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie
In this solo episode, Lizzy unpacks the difference between stimulation, regulation and behaviour and why understanding this distinction matters when supporting children. She explores how sensory input affects the nervous system, why regulation does not always mean calm, and how behaviour is often the outward signal of what is happening underneath. Lizzy also shares how movement, environment and co-regulation can support children more effectively at home, in therapy and in early learning settings. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode resonated with you, share it with a parent, clinician or early childhood educator who supports children with big behaviours, sensory needs or regulation challenges. Follow on Instagram → @movetalkthrive Watch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect with Us Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_ Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie
In this solo episode of Move.Talk.Thrive , Lizzy reflects on what she wishes she knew when she first started working in paediatrics. This episode is for new grads, clinicians brushing up on their paediatric skills, supervisors, managers and business owners supporting new clinicians. Lizzy unpacks why clinical confidence is not about having all the answers, but about connection, flexibility, curiosity and self-regulation. From challenging sessions and group environments to masking, parent expectations and learning how to read the room, this conversation is a practical and reassuring reminder that confidence is built inside the session, not before you walk into it. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode resonated with you, share it with a fellow allied health business owner who needs to hear this. Follow on Instagram: @movetalkthrive Watch on YouTube: Move.Talk.Thrive Your Hosts Lizzy Dawson Website: lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_ Emily Mackie Website: emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie
In this episode of Move.Talk.Thrive , Lizzy chats with Michelle Kvello , founder of Lantern Partners and fractional CFO, about financial clarity for allied health business owners. Michelle breaks down the numbers every business owner should understand ; from cash flow and pricing to gross margin, utilisation rates, payday super changes, and preparing for NDIS funding uncertainty. This is a practical, empowering conversation for allied health business owners who want to feel more confident, informed and in control of their finances. In this episode, we cover: Why cash and profit are not the same thing The difference between gross margin and net margin How utilisation rates impact profitability Why pricing correctly supports your purpose How to prepare for NDIS changes through scenario modelling What the payday super changes could mean for your cash flow Resources mentioned: Cash Flow Forecast Template Pricing Calculator Connect with Michelle: Website: lanternpartners.com.au Instagram: @michellekvello Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode resonated with you, share it with a fellow allied health business owner who needs to hear this. Follow on Instagram: @movetalkthrive Watch on YouTube: Move.Talk.Thrive Your Hosts Lizzy Dawson Website: lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_ Emily Mackie Website: emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie
The allied health landscape is changing, and paediatric practitioners, clinics and families are all feeling the uncertainty. In this solo episode of Move.Talk.Thrive , Lizzy shares reflections from recent conversations with allied health business owners around NDIS changes, the proposed Thriving Kids model, advocacy, business sustainability and the future of paediatric care. She also explores why working with children helps practitioners build the soft skills that matter most: communication, rapport, engagement, flexibility, parent education and client care. Whether you’re a clinician, business owner or allied health leader, this episode is a timely reminder that preparing for change starts with strengthening the skills, systems and conversations happening inside our teams. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode resonated with you, share it with a colleague working in paediatrics or early learning. Follow on Instagram → @movetalkthrive Watch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect with Us Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_ Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie
In this episode of Move.Talk.Thrive, Lizzy Dawson shares an inside look at running a successful pediatric holiday program and why it has become such a valuable part of her clinic. From managing cancellations and maintaining continuity of care to creating a supportive, low-stimulation environment for children with complex needs, Lizzy breaks down what makes a holiday program truly effective. She also shares practical insights on staffing, structure, and how these programs can improve therapy outcomes while supporting both families and clinicians. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode resonated with you, share it with a colleague working in early learning or paediatrics. Follow on Instagram → @movetalkthrive Watch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_ Connect with Us Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie
In this solo episode of Move.Talk.Thrive, Lizzy Dawson explores why therapy strategies that work in the clinic often don’t translate into real life. Lizzy unpacks the gap between controlled therapy environments and the realities of home, school, and early learning, and shares practical ways clinicians can create more functional, meaningful outcomes. From aligning clinical goals with real-world impact to improving communication with parents and educators, this episode will help you deliver therapy that actually carries over. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode resonated with you, share it with a colleague working in early learning or paediatrics. Follow on Instagram → @movetalkthrive Watch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect with Us Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_ Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie
In this solo episode of Move.Talk.Thrive , Lizzy Dawson explores why the word “sales” feels uncomfortable for many allied health professionals — and why it shouldn’t. Lizzy reframes sales as clear communication, education, and advocacy for client outcomes , explaining that practitioners are already “selling” every time they help families understand what they’re seeing, why it matters, and what the next step should be. Lizzy’s Simple 3-Step Communication Framework Lizzy shares a practical formula practitioners can use during sessions or assessments to communicate recommendations clearly: 1) Lead with what you see Start with a clear observation. 2) Explain the impact Help parents understand why this observation matters. 3) Give a clear recommendation Offer a specific plan for intervention. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode resonated with you, share it with a colleague who works in early learning settings. Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthriveWatch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect with Us Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_
In this solo episode, Lizzy Dawson explores the topic of client retention in pediatric allied health and why it should be seen as a matter of clinical leadership, not just administration . After reviewing patterns inside her own clinic, Lizzy shares what she discovered about why families disengage from services and where clinics often “leak” clients — including school holiday transitions, funding gaps, and clinician turnover. She explains how better systems, clearer communication, and stronger clinical goal setting can help improve retention and support more consistent progress for children. Lizzy also highlights the importance of helping parents understand the functional outcomes of therapy , building meaningful relationships with families, and ensuring goals are emotionally relevant and clearly communicated. This episode offers practical insights for allied health clinicians and clinic owners who want to strengthen client engagement, improve continuity of care, and build more sustainable pediatric services. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode resonated with you, share it with a colleague working in pediatric allied health. Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthrive Watch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Connect with Us Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_
In this solo episode of Move.Talk.Thrive, Lizzy Dawson shares 16+ years of real-world experience working inside early learning centres — and why they’re not mini clinics. As funding models shift, more clinicians are moving into group-based, naturalistic settings. But one-on-one strategies don’t automatically work in busy, noisy classrooms. Lizzy breaks down: • Why modelling in real time beats theory • How educator burnout impacts outcomes • Why collaboration matters more than clinical delivery • How movement can be a powerful clinical lens Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode resonated with you, share it with a colleague who works in early learning settings. Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthriveWatch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect with Us Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_
In this solo episode of Move.Talk.Thrive , Lizzy Dawson explores the evolving landscape of early intervention in Australia, including the proposed Thriving Kids model and ongoing NDIS reforms. She breaks down what’s currently known, what remains uncertain, and how these changes may impact families, clinicians, and allied health providers. Lizzy discusses the shift toward earlier, community-based supports for children aged 0–8, potential changes to therapy delivery, and key concerns across the sector — including implementation clarity, service gaps, and the future of one-on-one therapy. She also shares practical ways clinicians can prepare through collaboration, advocacy, and upskilling. This episode offers clarity and guidance for professionals and families navigating one of the biggest shifts in early intervention services in recent years. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive Follow on Instagram → @movetalkthrive Watch full episodes → Move.Talk.Thrive YouTube Connect with the Hosts Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_
In this episode of Move.Talk.Thrive , Lizzy Dawson sits down with speech pathologist Carolyn Weatherby to explore the future of allied health within the NDIS — and why clinicians can no longer navigate sector change alone. With 28 years in the disability sector, Carolyn shares how evidence-based communication and mealtime support transform lives, the growing challenges clinicians face during ongoing NDIS reform, and why collective representation is essential for sustainable practice and quality care. As a founding member of NDIS Professionals Australia, she explains how advocacy, formal representation, and collective action can help protect the future of allied health. If you’re an allied health professional working under the NDIS, this episode is a timely call to stay informed, supported, and represented. Learn more about NDIS Professionals Australia 🔗 NDIS Professionals Australia – Your union for self-employed & small business NDIS Allied Health Facebook: NDIS Professionals Australia LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ndis-professionals-union-professionals-australia/ Member Join: Click here Contact Carolyn Weatherby 📩 carolyn@simplyslp.com.au Stay connected with Move.Talk.Thrive Instagram: @movetalkthrive YouTube: Move.Talk.Thrive Connect with the hosts Emily Mackie — www.emilymackie.com.au | @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson — www.lizzydawson.com.au | @lizzydawson_
Returning to therapy after a long break can feel chaotic for kids, parents, and clinicians.In this episode of Move.Talk.Thrive , Lizzy Dawson and Emily Mackie share practical, experience-based guidance on how to restart pediatric therapy after the holidays without pressure or burnout. They explore regulation, reconnection, flexible planning, and how to meet children where they’re truly at so you can set the year up for meaningful progress. Perfect for clinicians navigating the start of the therapy year and wanting clarity, confidence, and calm. If this episode helped you rethink how you approach the first weeks back in therapy, share it with a fellow clinician who might need the reminder to slow down and trust the process. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthrive Watch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive
Lizzy Dawson and Emily Mackie answer a listener question about Virtual Assistants and how they use them to support their businesses. From onboarding and systems to delegation and consistency, they share practical tips for making VAs a valuable part of your team.Perfect for startup owners, clinicians, and solo operators ready to free up time and mental energy. 🎧 For business owners and clinicians who want sustainable growth, not overwhelm. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode helped you rethink delegation, systems, or how you spend your time, share it with a fellow business owner or clinician who might benefit. Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthriveWatch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect with Us Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_
Lizzy Dawson and Emily Mackie kick off 2026 with an honest conversation about planning for the year ahead while honouring very different life seasons. From business growth and maternity to energy protection and sustainable pacing, they explore why goals need to be flexible , and why calm, steady progress beats burnout every time. With Lizzy’s “Zone 2” business analogy and Emily’s reflections on motherhood, leadership, and delegation, this episode is for anyone navigating growth without sacrificing their health, family, or sense of self. 🎧 For business owners, clinicians, parents, and high achievers who want sustainable success not hustle. Stay Connected Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthrive Watch full episodes → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect Emily Mackie → @emilymackie.speechie | emilymackie.com.au Lizzy Dawson → @lizzydawson_ | lizzydawson.com.au
In this solo episode of Move Talk Thrive , Lizzy Dawson shares a gentle, intentional approach to reflecting on the year that’s been — and planning ahead without burnout. Lizzy invites listeners to look beyond unfinished goals and focus on wins, lessons, patterns, and growth across personal life, leadership, and business. She shares simple reflection and journaling prompts you can use in 10 minutes or over a full day. Perfect for clinicians, business owners, parents, and anyone wanting to move forward with clarity, values, and sustainability. In this episode: Why reflection supports sustainable growth Identifying wins and the systems behind them Reframing challenges as teachers Noticing patterns in energy and leadership Simple prompts you can revisit anytime Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode resonates , whether you’re a parent navigating school transition, a clinician supporting families, or a business owner planning services, share it with someone who needs reassurance that transition takes time. Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthrive Watch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect with Us Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_
In this episode of Move Talk Thrive, Emily and Lizzy unpack the transition to school through three lenses: parent, clinician, and business owner. They explore why school transition isn’t a single moment, but an ongoing process; from preschool to Kindy, new grades, new teachers, changing routines, and shifting expectations. Drawing on real-life parenting experiences and clinical insight, they discuss how predictability, emotional regulation, consistency, and communication play a key role in supporting children during times of change. The conversation also touches on therapy during school transition, why maintaining support can be protective rather than overwhelming, and how clinicians and businesses can build flexible systems that truly support families. This episode is a grounding reminder that readiness isn’t about perfection, it’s about adaptability, values, and grace. Key Takeaways Transition is a process, not a single day Consistency supports regulation during big changes Therapy can help during transition, not just before or after School readiness goes beyond academics Calm, regulated adults help children feel safe Values-driven systems allow flexibility without burnout Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthrive Watch full episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect with Us Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_
In this episode of Move.Talk.Thrive, Emily and Lizzy have a candid, practical conversation about navigating the end-of-year season while juggling multiple roles; clinician, business owner, parent, partner, and more. They unpack the realities of this time of year: clinic closures, financial pinch, school holidays, gift-giving pressures, and year-end exhaustion. Sharing their rituals, systems, and lessons, they offer tools to transition out of the busy season with calm, from budgeting and holiday program planning to clearing spaces and letting go of unrealistic expectations. Key Takeaways: Financial wobble is normal – early budgeting, systemising programs, and saving leave eases stress. Preparation starts early – map schedules and logistics months ahead to avoid a December scramble. Rest matters – mental health is essential; burnout prevention is part of leadership. Structure is key – plan your first week back, clear workspaces, prioritize tasks. Release perfectionism – not everything needs finishing before December 24. Create restorative spaces at home – reset, declutter, and carve out calm zones. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode helped you feel seen as a clinician or business owner, share it with someone who might need support heading into the holidays. Instagram: @movetalkthrive Watch episodes on YouTube: Move.Talk.Thrive Connect with Emily Website: emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Connect with Lizzy Website: lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_
In this solo episode of Move.Talk.Thrive, Emily gets honest about a feeling so many clinicians and leaders know well — being stuck in a rut. When your work feels heavier, your creativity dips, or everything starts to feel a bit “meh,” it can be tough to know what’s next. Emily shares why ruts happen, what they’re trying to tell us, and the small, doable steps that help you get moving again. Drawing from her own seasons of transition, business growth, and new motherhood, she highlights the patterns she sees in herself and the clinicians she mentors. If you’re feeling flat, overwhelmed, or disconnected from your “why,” this episode will help you name what’s draining you and gently rebuild momentum — one tiny shift at a time. Key Takeaways Feeling stuck is normal — and often a sign of a turning point. Decision fatigue and comparison are major motivation thieves. Your “why” isn’t gone; it’s buried. Reconnect with it. Small wins spark movement. Accountability and energy-lifting people matter. You don’t need mastery — just one step forward. Stay Connected with Move.Talk.Thrive If this episode resonates with you, share it with a colleague, a friend, or anyone who needs a reminder that motivation returns — one small step at a time. Follow us on Instagram → @movetalkthrive Watch episodes on YouTube → Move.Talk.Thrive Connect With Us Emily Mackie Website: www.emilymackie.com.au Instagram: @emilymackie.speechie Lizzy Dawson Website: www.lizzydawson.com.au Instagram: @lizzydawson_
